The Association of Sisterhood in Kenya (AOSK) is a major organization representing women religious in Kenya, with 175 registered congregations across the country. While the statistics show over 210 congregations, not all are registered with the AOSK. For effective operations, the AOSK is divided into diocesan units, which are further subdivided into denary sub-units.

Marafa Denary sub-unit, which includes four congregations—Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, Comboni Missionary Sisters, Franciscan Elizabethan Sisters, and Sisters of Most Precious Blood—recently held its regular meeting. The gathering included 16 members, with 14 in attendance. The group was joined by two members from the diocesan unit executive, including Sister Philomina Hembrom, Sisters of Charity of Nazareth, treasurer of the diocesan executive, and Sister Getrude Mghanga, secretary.

The meeting centered on the theme of child safeguarding and gender-based violence. Sister Catherine Njagi, a Franciscan Elizabethan Sister from Marafa Denary, led a discussion on child abuse in the area. She noted that children on the Malindi Coast are particularly vulnerable due to local cultural norms, poverty, and lack of privacy in homes. She highlighted that many children are exposed to inappropriate behaviors, both through imitation and as victims of abuse by tourists and extended family members.

Sister Catherine shared several confidential cases of child abuse she has encountered, emphasizing the Church’s moral responsibility, especially for women religious, to safeguard children. She discussed prevention strategies, including educating children on body autonomy, providing guidance and counseling, and engaging with parents. She also addressed the abuse of other vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, and introduced key contacts at the county and church level for reporting abuse.

The meeting concluded with a meaningful and informative discussion, with members agreeing that child safeguarding is a critical responsibility.

Submitted by Sister Philomina Hembrom, Sisters of Charity of Nazareth